Lisa Eldridge Make Up | Blog | Shellac Nail Polish

Shellac Nail Polish - The Verdict

Sunday 6th Jun 2010 8:54pm - Comments (79) - Back to the blog

So its day 15 of the Shellac nails and I asked my husband to take this picture so you can see we are nails wise. I’m still in Austria on my spa (kind of) break, which has been amazing but ill post about that another time. For those who asked...all the new videos I've had on here during this past week were filmed BEFORE I had my Shellac manicure.

Nail Diary

The first change in the nails happened at the end of day 11 when I noticed a slight wearing at the end of the index finger of my right hand, now when I say slight I mean slight. Most ‘normal’ people would have needed a microscope to see it, friends certainly couldn’t see anything but I was being extra vigilant.

The next change was on day 13 when the wearing on the right index finger turned into a small chip and, at the same time, the middle finger on the same hand started to wear resulting in a thin white strip along the tip. I must say at this point that I had been in the steam and sauna that morning and again for a mega long session in the evening so this may very well have had something to do with the sudden change. I need to ask David, the nail tech, when I get home whether extreme heat affects their longevity.

Day 14 (granted after another overly zealous detoxing sesh in the steam and sauna), and the thumb of my right hand developed a tiny chip. At this point the left hand was still absolutely perfect.

Today, as you can see from the photo there is a new chip on the right thumb and the first chip on the left hand, also on the thumb and of course quite a bit of ‘grow down’ at the cuticle.

Conclusion

Considering I have never managed to keep red nail polish for longer than 48 hours without chipping I’m totally thrilled with the Shellac system.I’ve also never had so many nail compliments; I put this down to the incredibly shiny, eye-catching finish – which never fades. I got 13 perfect days which may or may not have been longer had I avoided the heat therapy marathons…. who knows.

In the last day or two I have started to get sick of the colour as I’m used to chopping and changing but having said that, I’ve saved myself HOURS not having to remove and paint, remove and paint etc.Another positive is that my nails, which normally split and flake, have grown long and strong underneath the protective shield.

I’ll definitely have it done again, I’d like to have my toes done too.

I can wholeheartedly recommend this system to anyone who loves nail polish but is sick to death of it chipping and smudging – you will find this life changing and the constant mirror finish shine really is out of this world!

To find a Shellac salon in the UK contact Sweet Squared who are the distributors. You can call them on 0845 210 6060 or email them from their website www.sweetsquared.com.

Read more on: Nails

Comments (79)

Teresa - Saturday Jan 28th 2012 5:00pm

Hi Lisa, What is the colour of your red Schellac nail polish?

Teresa - Saturday Jan 28th 2012 4:59pm

What is the colour of your red Schellac nail polish?

Anna McCallum-Reid - Wednesday Jan 25th 2012 11:04am

I was reading your article and its great to hear so many people love shellac. I am a beauty Therapist and i've been doing shellac for a few months now and everyong i do it on love it to (by the way I'm from New Zealand and live here) I dont know if you found out but the reason for you nails (chipping /peeling or if someone has already mentioned this) after being in the sauna is because the water makes that nails swell and then dehydrate and come back to the normal size, for this reason the Shellac wont bond as well and will experience lifting. I mostly experience this with hairdressers and people you work in kitchens who are using lemons, cleaning products, vinagers and have their hands in water alot. In my opinion if they normally have polish last a couple of days then Shellac will last a wee bit longer. www.annabellabeautytherapy.weebly.com was great to read your story and great website Anna, Waiheke Island New ZEaland

Monday Jan 23rd 2012 4:46pm

I was told by the lady that did mine that you can paint normal nail varnish over the shellac, and remove as normal without damaging the manicure. This means you can have a nude shellac and then paint with bright colours for certain occasiona as and when you want to.

Lily - Sunday Jan 1st 2012 4:12pm

I got shellac about 14 days ago! I am really happy that it has lasted this long without chipping,but apparently it ruins your nails when you take it off with acid! I probally need to find a cheaper salon though! I paid 60, i thought that was normal, but looking at your prices, i guess i spent a little more then i could of done!

Bonnie - Friday Dec 30th 2011 12:01pm

My £15 shellac special intriductory offer of £15 has expired now it's £20 includIng mini manicure and choice of 26 colours Salon based in East London call me 07903488884 Thanks

BonBon - Friday Dec 30th 2011 11:59am

I love shellacs and I offer Shellacs at my salon based in East London I offer 26 colours £20 for a full set. Like my page on For promotional offers www.facebook.com/bonbonsbeauty Bonnie 07903488884 0208 552 2613. Address: Unique Expressions Salon. 341 Barking Road, East Ham, London E6 1LA.

nailcare - Sunday Nov 27th 2011 1:06pm

What if draw the mums on the nail?

K.x - Thursday Nov 24th 2011 10:17pm

As a beauty therapist who offers shellac, it will last you 14 days IF you look after it! We give after care for a reason, just because you pay for fourteen days, we arent miricle workers, if you dont look after your nails, it wont last as long as someone who does look after it. Also, you NEED the CND UV lamp, not any 36watt lamp will cure your shellac properly, so those of you who wish yo go on ebay,feel free, you will NOT be getting the real Shellac and you will cause problems as you will not be using shellac as a system and you WILL end up having problems with your nails and WILL end up going to a professional who is trained and knows exactly what they are doing. So save yourself time,money and hassel and go straight to a professional who uses shellac as a whole system!

Bonnie - Sunday Nov 6th 2011 9:58pm

I offer Shellacs full set £15, Visit me at my salon or call me to book. I have 20 colours to choose from. Bonnie 07903488884 0208 552 2613. Address: Unique Expressions Salon. 341 Barking Road, East Ham, London E6 1LA.

Aga - Saturday Nov 5th 2011 6:20pm

I had shellac Hollywood color Is great Last 2 weeks or more I had once in travel Now I m in London and can't find in west london shellac I think I will buy all stuff on ebay and will instruct any nail tech what to do with this I cant paint nails myself

Aga - Saturday Nov 5th 2011 5:58pm

Nu - Tuesday Nov 1st 2011 3:34pm

Would LOVE to try this but do not want to pay the salon prices of £45+ and have seen some people do theirs for as little as £15! Does anyone know of a good salon or mobile person that can do my nails? I'm in South London but work in Central/City London. Thanks x

Amy Fleming - Monday Oct 31st 2011 4:51pm

Shellac is defiantly the new jewel in the trade, - my busy on-the-go clients are ecstatic!! It your looking for a mobile technician that will bring salon quality to your home, - contact me - AMY (based in Cobham Surrey) on 0799 959 66 34 or if your just looking for some nail advice please don’t hesitate to call.

Kathy - Thursday Oct 27th 2011 6:28am

Can you cut your nails with the shellac polish?

caroline - Thursday Oct 20th 2011 5:56pm

Shellac available through a mobile service around the Camberley / Aldershot / Fleet area. tel 07786 373 197 - an amazing product!!!! x

Bev - Wednesday Oct 19th 2011 6:23pm

I loved shellac too, so much so I want to buy the kit for myself does anyone know if you can just use any 36watt uv lamp to cure the products ?

Hats - Wednesday Oct 12th 2011 10:37am

I just had a gelish french manicure and love it. Day 7 still looking bneat and no chips at all.

Tasha - Friday Sep 23rd 2011 10:50am

Inspire Beauty has two salons in South London that provide Shellac http://inspirebeautyuk.com/treatments-services/shellac/

Rebecca - Tuesday Aug 23rd 2011 2:50pm

Hi, I'm looking for people doing Shellac in Lancashire / Rossendale??? Thanks, Rebecca

Laura - Friday Aug 5th 2011 9:04am

Laura - Tuesday Apr 26th 2011 2:31am " I go back Saturday and I'm having them put normal polish on. I am a 17 year old and don't treat my nails the best, but they should las the two weeks if I'm paying for it." In response to this comment, I wanted to comment as it really annoys me that people don't look after our hard work yet expect it to last forever. I don't do shellac yet, but am a nail tech, it should last two weeks if you look after it, not just because you're 'paying for it'! I can pay for anything but it's not going to last if I don't look after it.

Zoe - Wednesday Aug 3rd 2011 9:54pm

Sorry! My number again 07966597120

Zoe - Wednesday Aug 3rd 2011 9:53pm

Hi all! I offer shellac manicures, also gelish and artistic which is the same format as shellac but different companies but more choice in colours. I have over 80 colours to choose from. I am based in north London N3 and u can call me on 0795659712

Mary Eyebrows - Saturday Jul 30th 2011 4:29pm

Hi there! Thank you for your tips!I'll give it a go :) I'd love to share a pretty thing with you too! It's about a fashion game for women that I've just found out on FB http://apps.facebook.com/date-deadline/ Have fun :) xx

Angie from Ackworth - Tuesday Jul 26th 2011 11:01am

Nirvana Nails has now moved to Ackworth, near Pontefract - I only charge £10 for Shellac, £15 minx, go on treat yourself - 07882 053490 x

Jan - Thursday Jul 21st 2011 3:58pm

Shellac is FABULOUS, we provide Shellac mani and pedi uk wide www.yourcorporatewellbeing.com We look forward to you looking fab too!!

Annie - Thursday Jul 21st 2011 3:29pm

I have had to stop shellac because of a brown discoloration on one finger that is really noticable. Manicurists say its an allergic reaction or a fluke. After growing it out I have stared again and can see after 2 treatments it may be coming back. My only other thought is it could be the effect of the lamp. Any ideas?

SALLY - Sunday Jul 3rd 2011 10:30pm

i SWIM EVERY DAY WILL SHELLAC STAND UP TO IT SAL

Helen From Hong Kong - Saturday Jul 2nd 2011 9:50am

My tip is to get a Colour close to one who have at home. You have to make sure the manicurist seals the edges at the tip to avoid peeling. It's all the craze in Hong Kong and Beijing

cynthia - Monday Jun 27th 2011 2:19pm

, I am thinking of having Shellac when I next have a manicure. My nails are very weak and I wondered if anybody else with weak nails has had it done and if so what was the result. Thanks

Angie Jones - Friday Jun 3rd 2011 12:20pm

I do Shellac and Minx - Nirvana Nails in Hemsworth near Pontefract, West Yorkshire. I only charge £10 for Shellac too - book now - 07882 053490 - Angie. It's fantastic stuff.

Basia - Tuesday May 31st 2011 11:47am

i am from polish :)

Lindsey - Wednesday May 25th 2011 7:00pm

Had shellac done twice now. Lasts fabulously even in and out of dish water and bath. Does anyone know if you can put crackle polish over the top of it?

Amanda - Friday May 13th 2011 9:57pm

I am here in the states but found your blog on the Shellac manicure. I had this done a week ago. I am one of those people that has a chip in a nail before I am done painting them it seems so this caught my eye ... BUT I am also very rough on my hands (stay-at-home mom and a firefighter/paramedic) so I was surprised when the polish lasted 48 hours before it started to peel off ... but if you aren't tough on them this is a GREAT way to go! :-D

Abeey Kat - Friday May 6th 2011 6:05pm

I've had fushia pink on my nails for 3 weeks with only a bit of a chip on the end of one of my nails, never had so many compliments on my nails in my life and my nails feel so much stronger, not a single one has snapped. Absolutely love it, going to buy my own set soon because I just can't see a future without shellac for me =) Just amazing!! Love them xx

Laura - Tuesday Apr 26th 2011 2:31am

I'm started out loving it. The first time I got it done they were all shiny. But a week in Disney proved to be too much. My left thumb peeled right off. The next day it was my right index and ring finger. Than the rest just split right off. My mom's lasted slightly longer, so I decided to try it again. This time it was only three days and my left pinky chipped in the middle and then day seven my right middle finger is starting to peel off. My left index finger is chipped and so is my right thumb. I go back Saturday and I'm having them put normal polish on. I am a 17 year old and don't treat my nails the best, but they should las the two weeks if I'm paying for it.

Jayne james - Saturday Apr 9th 2011 2:06pm

Hi I am a mobile nail technician also offering shellac manicure and minx nails .. I am in York, can call me on 01904 767518... Name is Jayne , thankyou xxx

queraz - Wednesday Mar 23rd 2011 1:33pm

Is shellac like other nail polish that you can buy and apply yourself\/ or what is it

Anne - Wednesday Mar 16th 2011 1:22pm

Oh dear, I'm really not having a good day! My mobile number should read 07751 333587! Looking forward to hearing from you.

Anne - Wednesday Mar 16th 2011 1:21pm

Ooops a bit too quick with the old typing! As I was saying, I'm a mobile therapist based in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire and I do Shellac and Minx manicures amongst other things. You can contact me on 07751 333581 or take a look at my web page www.shawbeauty.co.uk. Shellac is the best thing since sliced bread. I've really tested mine out, typing, in and out of filing cabinets, washing and housework with no rubber gloves and after 14 days only one little chip on my right hand index finger! How many re do's would I have had to do in 14 days without Shellac!!! This is definitely the way forward. Speak to you soon. Regards, Anne

Anne - Wednesday Mar 16th 2011 1:13pm

Hi, I'm a mobile therapist based in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire and I do Shellac and also Minx manicures/pedicures.

Faith. - Tuesday Mar 1st 2011 9:28am

Hello. I am a mobile therapist and nail tech based in East Kent, near Canterbury. I am now doing Shellac. I can come to your home! Feel free to contact me on 07966210009. Faith. x

Andrea Hopkinson - Friday Feb 18th 2011 3:58pm

I provide a Shellac service in Liecestershire from my home salon Nails 2 Envy. 99% of my clients now have Shellac on a regular basis and love it! Give me a call to book an appointment 01455 824118, see you soon.

Hannah - Thursday Jan 27th 2011 5:25pm

A touch late to the party - one (hopefully not stupid) question: Can you just paint over the colour if you get bored? :S x

Ella - Wednesday Jan 26th 2011 7:41pm

Hi, I am a big fan of Shellac! It is absolutely fantastic. Many of my clients switched from traditional nail polish to Shellac. It is saving their time and last beautifully for many days. My Salon: Fingers & Toes, 198 New Kings Road, Fulham 02077313313 www.fingers-toes.com Thanks, Ella

Nicola - Sunday Jan 23rd 2011 7:10pm

Had these done in a Brighton salon, Enzo. Am totally addicted as lasted 3 weeks with only one chip! Plus seems much cheaper down south as only paid £25!

The Beauty Doctor - Sunday Jan 9th 2011 8:13pm

Now offering the Shellac system in the Epping to South Woodford area. www.thebeautydoctor.co.uk

Oanh-manucure.com - Saturday Dec 25th 2010 9:15pm

Vous parle francaise???je suis manucurie,je voudrais vous contact,mais je ne sais pas parle anglais;hehehe,merci,bonne journée.

A - Wednesday Dec 22nd 2010 12:40pm

I had Shellac mani and pedi for my wedding and honeymoon it was amazing! A french manicure that lasted 3 weeks with only 1 chip, no maintenance required! Gemini Salon in Braintree, Essex did it, get an appointment now!01376 349656

lisa - Monday Dec 20th 2010 11:36pm

Hi My name is Lisa and I am based in West London and I offer shellac in my salon. You can call me on 07518 665 745. Lisa

Gemma - Thursday Dec 2nd 2010 10:00am

I offer Shellac manicures in the Midlands e-mail me at info@serenitybeautycompany.co.uk

Amanda - Monday Nov 15th 2010 10:57am

Hi I'm in East Molesey Surrey. I offer Shellac Manicures and can be reached on 07933770336 Look forward to hearing from you. Thanks Amanda x

Zoe - Tuesday Nov 9th 2010 8:17pm

Hi there Im a manicurist and offer shellac. I'm based in north London, u can call me 07956597120 Thanks zoe

Zoe - Tuesday Nov 9th 2010 8:14pm

Hi there Im a manicurist and offer shellac. I'm based in north London, u can call me 07956597120 Thanks zoe

fiona kamale - Wednesday Nov 3rd 2010 5:14pm

Fiona-wenesday nov 4th 2010 5:10pm Hello Lisa, I always watch your demos on youtube, I find them really informative and very clear cut instructions,so thank you! I am a manicurist at the super amazing Bliss spa in sloane avenue, we do shellac. Our clients absolutely love it as do we. Please come see us. Thanks

Marisha - Wednesday Nov 3rd 2010 12:16pm

Hi, i am now offering Shellac in Regent Street Rugby. I can be contacted on 07768993943 or take a look at my website beautywithinrugby.co.uk

Natalya - Wednesday Oct 20th 2010 10:45am

Hi, I am in Rugby and offering Shellac, you can call me on 07912 359746 or check out my website www.silverfernbeauty.co.uk Thanks, Natalya

Sophie - Tuesday Oct 19th 2010 6:37pm

I've had a shellac manicure twice now and love it! I was intrigued when my friend had it done before going on holiday and came back with nails still looking fab. I used a mobile spa company called Total Renewal who sent a lovely beautician who travels all over London.

Katrina - Saturday Oct 16th 2010 10:21pm

Wow - I just had my nails Shellac'ed in Malta. They are fabulous and even though I work in London I had never heard of this treatment before. Amazing - my nails are so glossy and they look great. I have always suffered with polish chipping or smudging after even a few hours. I need to find a salon that can re-do them near Regent Street - any ideas?

Rowena - Thursday Sep 23rd 2010 3:04am

I'm in London and I offer Shellac manicures and pedicures. www.seibellabeauty.co.uk info@seibellabeauty.co.uk 07564788667 / 0207 1439694

jade - Thursday Jul 29th 2010 1:52pm

I'm thinking about getting a Shellac mani/pedi done for going on holiday as I hate how normal nail polish dulls and chips with daily beach going. Do you think it would stand up to two weeks on the beach? Would be annoyed if it started chipping/peeling because of the heat! What does anyone think? Thanks!

Nail Envy Glenfield - Saturday Jul 24th 2010 2:11pm

I love Shellac too buy am struggling to get any clients in the Leicester area to have it!! More marketing required on my part methinks. Pleased you liked it, it's great to have a product that clients are happy with and that lives up to the hype :) PS all - Shellac removal packs are sold by Shellac Authorised Salons. Removal is soaking on a pad for 10 mins and then it should all just flake off - it's awesome!

Shiori - Wednesday Jul 21st 2010 7:21pm

I just realized you have a video up on youtube about your rings! Nmv my previous comment/post. Thanks!

Michelle Thomson - Monday Jul 19th 2010 1:34am

Lisa i love your site! i was wondering what lipstick you where wearing when you had the Schlac done. If you can remember I would be very grateful Thanks Michelle

Deeann M Perkowski - Tuesday Jul 13th 2010 4:59pm

OPI Axium is a good colored gel system, but it is not a hybrid; therefore it is thicker (does not apply like a polish)& cannot soak off. It has to be filed off.

Shiori - Monday Jul 12th 2010 8:06pm

Your red nails looks fabulous! This is a little off the topic, but I love your rings especially the emerald ring and the Kiss ring! Could you share with us where you got your rings? Thanks!

sheila - Monday Jun 28th 2010 4:24pm

Lisa Eldridge - Friday Jun 11th 2010 9:18am

@Nicola I took them off myself, I soaked a pad in acetone and held it on them for a few minutes then they peeled off. I'm not sure if thats the recommended way but it worked fine. My nails are really long now and seem stronger. x @Janet I hear its great for the toes! Thanks for commenting x @Lina I know what you mean I did get a bit tired of the colour in the second week because I'm so used to changing all the time. I'm sure they will be in Australia by now x @x_rocca Ha! x @Andrea no is it good? x @kokolaroo Thanks you so much x@Lily They should be! x

Lily - Tuesday Jun 8th 2010 7:46pm

Wow, it's really impressive! Hopefully, it will be available in France soon!

Nicola - Tuesday Jun 8th 2010 6:05pm

@sylvie I'm going to make an appt for David Barton at Percy & Reed next time i'm in town, apparently Vogue.com recommends them! 157c Great Portland St, W1, £35, tel: 020 7637 4634.

Kokolaroo - Monday Jun 7th 2010 7:32pm

Hi Lisa!! I just got your latest email regarding your upcoming giveaway, and my first thought was "Could I love you anymore?" and the answer is 'Yes it seems I can!" You put in so much time and effort with your videos and to do these giveaways on top of that is just so incredible! Your generosity knows no bounds. You truly are a class act and I for one am so grateful that I get to benefit from your tremendous talent and artistry! xo

Andrea - Monday Jun 7th 2010 6:48pm

Lisa, have you tried OPI Axxium? It's a similar concept and I love it! x

x_rocco94 - Monday Jun 7th 2010 5:37pm

i'm very impressed, however the cutile growth and the same colour for 2 weeks would mean it would be a waste on me! i like neat and tidy nails :) .. i wish i could say the same for my bedroom hah

Lina Smith - Monday Jun 7th 2010 2:09pm

Lisa, due to the fact that you can see how your nail have grown over the 15days speaks volume to me. By the way they seem to be growing very quickly,what a bonus. I am impressed that the Shellac had been doing so well even after being put thru the paces and it has stayed on so well is great. I'm sold, the only thing is I like changing the colour of my nails 2-3 times a week to go with my mood or clothes. So for me to commit to one colour I would have to wait for more colours to come out so I could be sure about choosing something that i would be happy to wear for 14 days. It would have to released in Australia before I'm getting too excited. Can't for the next video...

Janet - Monday Jun 7th 2010 1:54pm

I've never had a manicure or pedicure; I think the toes would be good to have Shellac on. I tend to keep the same colour on toes longer than hands. I don't like the look of the regrowth, I awesome all manicure end up with the regrowth if on a long time. I suppose if you have to go back to get shellac removed you're more likely to get it reapplied since you're there. Thanks for going through the test of time for us. Janet

Lisa Eldridge - Monday Jun 7th 2010 6:35am

@Silvie you should contact Sweet Squared who are the distributors. You can call them on 0845 210 6060 or email them from their website www.sweetsquared.com. They are also on facebook and twitter. They can give you a full list of salons near you x @Nicole I'm going to try to take them off myself tomorrow by putting pads soaked in an acetone based remover on them for ten minutes as I haven't got time to go to the salon this week. I'll let you know how it goes x @Eleonore have a look at my reply above with all the info on how to find a salon in your area of the UK. Yes the spa has been really good although tough (its more of a clinic/spa) but its been worth it as Im feeling great now! x

Eleonore - Sunday Jun 6th 2010 11:48pm

Quite a revolution in nail polish! Can't wait till it spreads outside London! Thank you for this interesting review. You seem to have had a lovely time in your Austrian spa you lucky girl:-)

Nicola - Sunday Jun 6th 2010 9:55pm

So exciting to read the outcome, I think I'll definitely get a mani/pedi done! Although... does it tie the client in to having to go back to the salon? Or can you buy a bottle of special remover?

sylvie - Sunday Jun 6th 2010 9:33pm

Lisa - Can you list some London salons that are doing Shellac manicures? I tried googling but couldn't find anything in Central London. Thanks!

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